Published by Robert L Senior Reporter on Saturday 19th April 2025 at 14:30hrs
The body of a man discovered in a remote moorland area near Roddlesworth is believed to be that of 80-year-old Brian Fletcher, who went missing last month after travelling from his home in Bury for a walking trip.
Lancashire Police confirmed in a statement released today that a body was found on Friday morning (April 18th) a few miles west of the A675.
While formal identification is yet to take place, officers believe the deceased to be Mr. Fletcher.
Mr. Fletcher, a keen walker and bird watcher, had last been seen on Saturday, March 22nd, when he travelled to Tockholes, an area he frequented.
His car was later found parked in a layby on the A675, close to Tockholes Road, sparking a widespread search operation.
Over the past three weeks, extensive enquiries have been conducted by police and partner organisations in an effort to locate Mr. Fletcher.
Sadly, these efforts led to the discovery of a body yesterday.
Police have informed Mr. Fletcher’s family of the development and expressed their deepest condolences during this difficult time.
In their statement, the police acknowledged that this was not the desired outcome but expressed hope that it would bring some sense of closure to his loved ones.
The death is not being treated as suspicious, and a file will be prepared for the HM Coroner.
Lancashire Police also extended their gratitude to the public and partner agencies who assisted in the search for Mr. Fletcher by sharing appeals and offering their support.
This news brings a somber end to the search for Mr. Fletcher, a beloved member of his community who enjoyed the natural beauty of the Lancashire countryside.
His passion for walking and bird watching took him to the Tockholes area, a place that ultimately became the focus of the search efforts.
The discovery of his body will undoubtedly be felt deeply by his family and friends in Bury and beyond.
The community is asked to respect the privacy of Mr. Fletcher’s family as they come to terms with this sad news.
Further updates will likely be provided by the Coroner’s office as the formal identification process concludes.
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